Jerusalem: The Custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Ielpo, has appealed to Christians around the world to resume pilgrimages to the Holy Land, saying their presence brings hope and provides vital support to local communities struggling to survive.
Speaking at the Franciscan headquarters in Jerusalem’s Old City, Father Ielpo told a group of pilgrims from Rome that fear cannot be overcome by words alone, but by witness. He said the arrival of pilgrims from different countries strengthens local Christians and reminds them that the Church is alive and close to them.
A delegation of nearly thirty priests, church officials, journalists and communicators, led by Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi, visited Jerusalem to understand how pilgrimages have changed since October 7, 2023, and why they are now more important than ever.
Father Ielpo said one of the most common questions he receives is how people can help the Holy Land. After prayer, he explained, returning as pilgrims is the most concrete way.
Pilgrimages remain a major source of income for local families, especially Christians, who number about 50,000 in Israel and Palestine, with around 6,000 living in Jerusalem. Without this support, he warned, the risk of families leaving the region will continue to grow.
He noted that migration is affecting not only Christians but also Jewish families. At the same time, pilgrimages can create hope and encourage positive initiatives that help people remain rooted in the land.
Signs of recovery were seen during the recent Christmas season. Hotels in Bethlehem were fully booked, and occupancy levels stayed high into early January. Israeli authorities also issued 25,000 temporary permits allowing Palestinians to visit Israel, many of whom were able to enter Jerusalem for the first time.
Reflecting on the impact of the events of October 7, 2023, Father Ielpo said the Holy Land has changed and pilgrimages cannot return to how they were before. He said today’s pilgrims arrive with deeper questions and a strong motivation of faith.
He stressed the importance of guiding pilgrims in a way that avoids taking rigid sides or creating further division. Condemning injustice, he said, should never lead to blaming entire communities. He also warned against the rise of antisemitism linked to political tensions, calling it unacceptable.
Recalling an incident at a multi religious choir school run by the Custody, Father Ielpo spoke of the challenges and possibilities of dialogue. After mediation, classes resumed, showing that patience and commitment can rebuild trust even in painful situations.
Looking ahead, he said pilgrimages should focus more on encounters with local communities. Rather than simply visiting holy places, pilgrims are encouraged to meet people who are already working quietly for understanding and peace.
According to Father Ielpo, these small but real signs of goodness are the seeds of the future for the Holy Land, and pilgrims have an important role in helping them grow.